I have a standard compression tester and when i tried to test the compression by removing both plugs and pulling it over I didnt get much of a reading.
do i need to try and run it on 1 cyl and test it?

no you dont need to take out bothe plugs at wfo pull untill the gauge stops going up

If you are using a screw-in compression tester, you should get a maximum reading after 6-8 pulls on the rope. If your readings are less than 100 psi after 8 pulls, find someone else with a tester and compare yours to theirs, maybe yours is reading low. That could save you from rebuilding an engine before it's time...

Like PolarisKid said, make sure your throttle is wide open when pulling, that helps air flow into the cylinder to be compressed.